Composer

:

Robert Schumann

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Fantasy

Compose Date

:

1853

Average_duration

:

14:38

Robert Schumann's 'Fantasie for violin & orchestra in C major, Op. 131' was composed in 1853, during the composer's final years. The piece was premiered on December 13, 1853, in Leipzig, with Ferdinand David as the soloist and the Gewandhaus Orchestra conducted by Julius Rietz. The 'Fantasie' is a single-movement work that is divided into three distinct sections. The first section is marked "Durchaus phantastisch und leidenschaftlich vorzutragen" (To be played entirely fantastically and passionately) and is characterized by its sweeping melodies and dramatic contrasts. The second section, marked "Mäßig. Durchaus energisch" (Moderately. Entirely energetic), is more subdued and introspective, with the solo violin taking on a more lyrical role. The final section, marked "Langsam getragen. Durchweg leise zu halten" (Slowly carried. To be kept entirely quiet throughout), returns to the passionate and dramatic character of the opening, building to a powerful climax before subsiding into a quiet and reflective coda. The 'Fantasie' is notable for its virtuosic demands on the soloist, particularly in the first and third sections, which require a high level of technical skill and expressiveness. The work also showcases Schumann's gift for melody and his ability to create a sense of drama and tension through the use of contrasting themes and textures. Overall, the 'Fantasie for violin & orchestra in C major, Op. 131' is a powerful and expressive work that showcases Schumann's talents as a composer and his deep understanding of the capabilities of the violin as a solo instrument.

More....